Venus in the Elements: Fire, Earth, Air, & Water

Donna says: I recently ran across Cafeastrology.com and found it to be a repository of excellent and well-written articles about many features of the astrology chart. Though especially helpful for beginning and intermediate students, the insights can be admired by any level of astrology lovers. This useful perspective on the Venus signs by Annie Heese is reprinted with her permission.

The twelve signs of the zodiac are grouped into four elements—fire, earth, air, and water—which represent four different approaches to life. There are three signs per element. It is helpful to consider the element of the sign that Venus occupies in a person’s chart in order to gain more understanding of the love and relationship nature of the individual.

Venus represents, amongst other things, how people both give and receive love. Perhaps more importantly, the position of Venus shows a person’s perception of relationship and affection. What qualities and expressions of affection are people most receptive to? What is most important and comfortable in a relationship to a Venus in Leo person may not be the case for a Venus in Gemini individual. For example, while dramatic expressions of affection may woo a native with Venus in Fire, they may be a turn-off for a Venus in Air individual. Similarly, a Venus in Air native may find it easier to maintain a long-distance relationship than a Venus in Earth person, who needs physical presence more than most.

Venus in Fire people (that is, those with Venus in Aries, Leo, or Sagittarius) have very idealistic, and often self-centered, visions of romance and relationship. Although generally lacking in pretension, these individuals can blatantly disregard their lovers’ dreams and desires. Venus in Fire natives often unconsciously write scripts for their love lives, and they do expect their partners to follow them. Otherwise they are left rather disappointed. They tend to consider themselves to be warm and passionate people—and they are! But it can sometimes be difficult to convince them that they are self-centered as a result. Venus in Fire need to breathe new life into their relationships frequently, which can be exhausting for lovers who prefer a smoother “ride”.

At their worst, Venus in Fire natives can be somewhat like vampires, demanding attention from their loved ones, getting it, and then feeding off their lovers’ energy! If their lovers appreciate the drama, then all is fine. Those less inclined to this kind of ardor might find Venus in Fire natives exciting for a while, but eventually exhausting. Venus in Fire people are generally rather blunt and direct in love, and they expect you to be too. Spontaneity, laughter, and grand gestures turn them on. Remember, they feed on energy and excitement in their relationships more than anything—and attention! Even those with more modest Sun Signs—such as Taurus, Virgo, or Capricorn—need to feel alive through their relationships. In fact, some might say that they treat their lovers as objects and extensions of themselves.

Venus in Earth people (that is, those with Venus in Taurus, Virgo, or Capricorn) tend to most appreciate solid, long-standing, and reliable relationships. Although somewhat cautious about entering new relationships, once they do decide, they are admirable for their ability to commit themselves. Venus in Earth natives feel most loved with physical proof of commitment. They work hard at making their relationships work on a physical and practical level. Unless the element of Water is prominent in the chart, however, their approach to relationships may seem rather impersonal and overly practical—perhaps even conservative—to some.

Venus in Earth natives are most receptive to solid expressions of love that are tangible and easily measured. Similarly, they express their love and affection in ways that are rarely flowery or grand. They require, more than most, physical presence, steadiness, reliability, and comfort in their relationships. Once committed, they quickly become annoyed if their partners demand proof of their love. They might say, “I’m here, aren’t I?” Perhaps it has a little to do with all of the energy they put into entering the relationship in the first place! (Venus in Earth people are generally quite cautious and often need a lot of time to get comfortable). Again, physical expressions of affection and commitment are most appreciated. Flowery romance and excitement are seen as superfluous or even superficial.

Venus in Air people (that is, those with Venus in Gemini, Libra, or Aquarius) consider communication to be the key “ingredient” in their relationships. These natives will respond most lovingly to verbal expressions of interest and affection. Sharing thoughts is, to Venus in Air natives, the most essential part of a relationship. They will be most turned off by partners (or potential partners) who are uncommunicative. Sometimes, these natives are more interested in what others might consider superficial gestures—the right words at the right time, for example.

In sharp contrast to Venus in Earth natives, Venus in Air people are less inclined to require physical presence and expressions of affection. As long as there is what they consider to be an open and flowing communication between themselves and their partners, they tend to feel nurtured, loved, and appreciated. Venus in Air people also tend to demand or require some independence and space from their lovers. They are often rather playful and sometimes flirtatious individuals, promising a little more than they can deliver. Expect lively, intelligent, and fun exchanges with these natives.

Venus in Water people (that is, those with Venus in Cancer, Scorpio, or Pisces) are most receptive to emotional expressions of affection. Although somewhat self-protective and cautious about making new social connections, once they are in committed relationships, they go out of their way to nurture and care for their loved ones. Verbal expressions of affection are less important to them than exchanges of feelings. Venus in Water people feel the need to “become one” with their lovers—they often consider verbal expressions of love superficial and are easily baffled by any demand on them to make these expressions.

Some may find Venus in Water natives difficult to understand, especially due to their sensitive natures and tendency to brood or become silent when unhappy. They can find it rather difficult to share their partners, requiring more loyalty than most. They are especially adept at feeling out their partner’s deeper needs and desires, and it is in this area that they feel most proud. By picking up their partner’s emotional undercurrents, Venus in Water people express their love. Some partners, such as Venus in Air or Venus in Fire individuals, will be threatened by their tendency to nonverbal communication, and they may want more. Others may find Venus in Water people to be too indirect and even roundabout.

About the Author: Annie Heese of cafeastrology.comhas been a student of Astrology since the age of twelve. Twenty-five years later, she is still actively researching, studying, and using Astrology. She is frequently found with her nose buried in Astrology books, her faithful ephemeris by her side, scribbling in her notebook and on her printouts. Annie has long abandoned her career in Accounting, and has since worked as a freelance writer for various online and print publications, as well as a reviewer of educational products. She is also a jewelry designer, incorporating handmade beads and gemstones into her handcrafted pieces.